Author Archives: Jennifer Kohlhammer
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What to do When a Boil Water Advisory is Lifted
Leave a CommentOnce a Drinking Water Advisory is lifted, it’s important to flush, clean, and sanitize the following:
- Water pipes
- Water treatment devices
- Plumbed appliances
- Water storage tanks
Before you use water in your home:
- Remove all aerator or screen devices from faucets
- Run hot and cold water faucets for at least five minutes before you use them.
- If you live in an apartment or condominium, run all faucets for at least five minutes, until the water is clear and any air in the plumbing has been released.
- Rinse out any sediment or debris from the aerator or screen devices and put them back on the faucet.
- Flush, clean, and sanitize appliances with water line connections (e.g., fridges with water and ice dispensers) following manufacturer’s instructions.
- Disinfect water filtration devices following manufacturer’s instructions.
- Run your water softener through a regeneration cycle following manufacturer’s instructions.
- Replace filters on any tap water filtration devices, and flush the fixture according to the manufacturer’s directions
- Hot water heaters and hot water heating systems may require that water be drained to get rid of any sediment.
- If your hot water heater was set below 45 °C, drain and refill the tank.
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Mother’s Day Gratitude Event Recap – We’re Thankful for YOU!
Leave a CommentThank you to everyone who joined us for our Mother’s Day Gratitude Event on May 7th as we celebrated the mothers and mother figures in our lives!
We began our special program with guest speaker, Dr. Sandy Dumanski’s insightful presentation about Giving Your Heart Some Love. Her expertise as a Nephrologist and women’s cardiovascular health specialist offered valuable wisdom for women’s healthcare; stay tuned for more information about her program that will be coming to Siksika this Fall!
Our keynote speakers, Dr. Latisha Hewton-Backfat, Dr. Pearl Yellow Old Woman-Healy, Katrina Hewton-Backfat, and Siksika Health CEO, Angie Sarsons then shared messages that inspired a wellspring of gratitude, also honouring the mothers in their own lives. The words of Angie’s self-written poem rang true for many:
Whispers of Our Matriarchs
By Angie Sarsons
They walk with us in morning light,
In dreams, in songs, in stars at night.
Their hands once braided roots and skies,
Now lift us up with watchful eyes.
Through every step, their voices guide,
In quiet strength they still reside.
They see our struggles, feel our grace,
And smile through time, from sacred space.
With every laugh, with every tear,
Our matriarchs are always near.
So proud of who we’ve dared to be-
We are their prayers, walking free.
A highlight of the evening was being able to honour the mothers and mother figures, nominated by YOU, Siksika; they are featured in the event program, which can be viewed here: https://siksikahealth.com/2025/04/25/mothers-day-gratitude-event/
When we all came together for the family-friendly celebration afterward, the Living Legends dance troupe, featuring Siksika’s own Kiki Adolpho (Dr. Quintina Bearchief-Adolpho’s daughter!) offered a spectacular performance showcasing the rich traditions of Native American, Polynesian, and Latin American dance, and left us with a powerful message: that we are all the results of the love of thousands.
So many thanks so the staff, teams, and volunteers who collaborated to make the event a success, to the Living Legends dance troupe who shared their performance free of charge and covered the costs of the stage rentals, and a special thanks to YOU, Siksika and friends, for joining us! The Mother’s Day Gratitude Event launches a year of gratitude for our Mental Health and Substance Use teams at Siksika Health Services; we invite you to join us as we move forward and spread gratefulness all year long. Here’s to making this a year filled with gratitude!
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Fire Restriction Issued for Siksika Nation
Leave a CommentSiksika Nation has issued a Fire Restriction due to the dry, windy, and warm conditions that exist and are forecasted. There is a very high risk of fire spread during windy conditions in any cured (dead and dry) grass fuel type, such as those that exist across the area of Siksika Nation. Due to the rapidly changing weather conditions and the fine fuel moisture content, Siksika Nation may move to a Ban with little to no notice.
A Fire Restriction prohibits the use of wood campfires on public land, but does allow wood campfires inside provincial campgrounds and private property. For a list of relevant activities and their current restriction levels, please see the notice below. And please note that fire permits may be restricted, suspended or cancelled and no new fire permits will be issued.
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Using Water Safely During a Boil Water Advisory
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What is a boil water advisory?A boil water advisory is issued when harmful germs (e.g., E.coli bacteria, Giardia parasite) may be in a drinking water supply. Drinking water contaminated with these germs can make people and animals very sick. Boiling will kill the germs and make the water safe to drink after cooling.
When a boil water advisory has been issued, how should the water be used?
When a boil water advisory has been issued, do not use the tap water to:
drink, prepare baby formula, make juice make ice, prepare foods wash fruits or vegetables, brush teeth, fill a wading pool, give to pets During a boil water advisory use boiled water, bottled water or water from another safe public supply not affected by the advisory. Throw away any ice in your freezer made with the water and sanitize the ice cube trays.
To make the water safe, bring to a rapid rolling boil for at least one minute. Boil only as much water in the pot that one can comfortably lift without spilling. An electric kettle with auto-shut off feature is effective. Ensure water is cooled appropriately before using or before direct handling to prevent scalds.
What special precautions should people with a weakened immune system take?
Individuals with weakened immune systems, should consult with a doctor.
Is bottled water or water from self-serve water dispensers safe to use?
Sometimes you can use bottled water, but it depends on when and how the water was bottled. Bottling plants and/or water dispensers that use local water must treat the water to remove harmful germs. Check with the Environmental Public Health Office (phone numbers below) about bottled water brands or water dispensers that have been treated so the water is safe. You can also use water bottled from another public water supply not affected by the advisory.
Is the water safe to drink if an on-site water filtration device is used?
If you have a water filtration device, do not use the water during a boil water advisory. Many filtration devices do not remove harmful germs. Check with the manufacturer to find out what the filtration device does remove.
GENERAL HYGIENE DURING A BOIL WATER ADVISORY
Can tap water be used for handwashing?
Yes. Wash hands using tap water and soap, making sure to lather and scrub all surfaces of the hand for a minimum of 20 seconds. Rinse hands well with running water, and dry with a paper towel. After washing hands with tap water, use an alcohol‑based hand sanitizer containing more than 60% alcohol.
Can tap water be used for showering or bathing?
Healthy individuals may take showers or baths with untreated tap water, if they are careful not to swallow any tap water. Younger children (elementary school age) should not use the water for showering unless properly instructed and supervised. Infants, toddlers and young children are more likely to drink bath water, so they should be given a sponge bath instead of bathing them in a tub. People with open wounds, cuts, blisters or recent surgical wounds should not use the water for showering, unless measures are in place to prevent exposure to wound areas (such as covering the wound with a waterproof covering).
Can tap water be used for brushing teeth?
No. During a boil water advisory, do not use tap water to brush teeth. Use boiled water that is cooled, bottled water or water from another safe source.
Can tap water be used for washing laundry?
Yes. During a boil water advisory, continue washing laundry like normal. Ensure that a mechanical dryer (hot drying method) is used to completely dry the material.
Can tap water be used for general cleaning purposes?
Yes. Tap water can be used for general cleaning of surfaces and to prepare a bleach sanitizing solution (1/2 teaspoon household bleach per litre of water). Spray or wipe cleaned surfaces with the bleach solution and allow to air dry. A new bleach solution should be made daily.
PREPARING FOOD DURING A BOIL WATER ADVISORY
Can tap water be used to make coffee?
During a boil water advisory, the coffeemaker may be used if it heats water to 70°C or hotter. Test the coffee temperature with a probe thermometer. Let the coffee sit in the pot for at least five minutes before drinking. If the coffee maker does not heat the water to at least 70°C, and does not incorporate a burner for 5-minute hold time, use bottled or boiled water to make coffee.
Can tap water be used to wash dishes by hand?
Yes. Wash and rinse dishes with hot tap water, and then sanitize the dishes to reduce the amount of germs to a safe level. Soak the dishes for at least two minutes in a bleach solution of 1 tablespoon of household bleach in 4 litres (20 cups) of warm water. Let the dishes air-dry completely.
Can domestic dishwashers be used?A domestic dishwasher can be used if it works well and has a hot temperature setting or sanitizer cycle. Let the dishes dry completely, preferably using a heated dry cycle on the dishwasher. If the dishwasher does not have a hot temperature setting, it is recommended that dishes be sanitized using method outlined in the hand dishwashing question above.
How should counter tops, cutting boards or other kitchen surfaces be sanitized?
Tap water can be used for cleaning of kitchen surfaces and equipment, and to prepare a bleach sanitizing solution (1/2 teaspoon household bleach per litre of water). Spray or wipe cleaned surfaces or equipment with the bleach solution and allow to air dry. A new bleach solution should be made daily.
PROCEDURES TO TAKE AFTER A BOIL WATER ADVISORY IS ENDED
- Flush all water-using fixtures by running the tap for five minutes.
- Ensure equipment with water line connections such as refrigerator water and ice dispensers are drained, flushed, cleaned and disinfected according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Flush, drain, clean and disinfect cisterns that contained the affected water source.
- Run water softeners through a regeneration cycle according to manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Drain and refill hot water heaters that have been set below 45°C/110°F.
For more information about using water during a boil water advisory, contact the local Environmental Health Officer.
Environmental Public Health Services
First Nations and Inuit Health Branch, Alberta Region
Edmonton Phone: (780) 495-2712
Calgary Phone: (403) 299-3939
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Mother’s Day Gratitude Event
Leave a CommentTHANK YOU, Siksika, for nominating your mothers and mother figures! They are featured in the event program:
This multi-part event will bring together mothers and mother figures for a time of connection, learning, dinner and dessert, followed by a dance performance at which everyone is welcome.
Date: Wednesday, May 7, 2025
Location: Siksika Piiksapi Memorial Arbor
Schedule of Events:
4:00-6:30pm: special program for mothers and mother figures. This portion of the evening will feature guest speaker, Dr. Sandra Dumanski, Nephrologist and women’s cardiovascular health specialist about how to “Give your Heart Some Love”, followed by remarks from our inspiring keynote speakers: Dr. Latisha Hewton-Backfat, Dr. Pearl Yellow Old Woman-Healy, Katrina Hewton-Backfat, and Siksika Health CEO, Angie Sarsons.
At 6:30pm: doors will open to welcome family, friends, and all community members from Siksika Nation and beyond for a family-friendly celebration. A highlight of this segment will be a spectacular performance by the dance troupe “Living Legends”, showcasing the rich traditions of Native American, Polynesian, and Latin American dance.
Guest Speakers and Event Features:
Dr. Sandra Dumanski
Dr. Dumanski is a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Medicine at the University of Calgary and nephrologist at Alberta Health Services. With her research program and clinical expertise in kidney and cardiovascular disease, and her scientific background in vascular physiology, Dr. Dumanski endeavors to understand the impacts of sex and gender on cardiovascular and kidney outcomes in women and men.
Dr. Latisha Hewton-Backfat
Oki my name is Latisha, my Blackfoot name is Kitaitsinopakii. My professional name is Dr. Latisha Hewton-Backfat and I am a member of Siksika First Nation. My grandparents were Philip and Jean Backfat and my parents are Ron Hewton and Betty Backfat-Hewton. I am a mom to three busy boys. I work as a Family Physician and low risk Obstetrics provider serving Siksika and Calgary. I received my first degree in Biological Sciences at the University of Calgary, then went to medical school at the University of Alberta and finished my training at the University of British Columbia’s Postgraduate program in Family Medicine in 2012. I provide full scope Family Medicine in Siksika and low risk Obstetrical and Newborn care in Siksika and Calgary.
A career in medicine was a long journey and I am very grateful to my family, who supported and encouraged me: my husband who I dragged to Edmonton then Victoria and back to Calgary; my parents, and sisters Gisele, Candace, Fawn and Katrina; also my extended family and Siksika community who have encouraged and supported me as well. I’ve had so many mentors along the way. I continue to love the work I am privileged to do and have a special interest in Women’s Health and Maternity and Newborn care.
The hardest and most rewarding job has been being a mom and I was blessed with 3 boys who have taught me so much!
Angie Sarsons
Angie Sarsons is a proud member of Moose Cree First Nation (Moose Factory, ON). She is of mixed decent (Cree on her Mother’s side and French on her father’s side). She recently assumed the role of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) with Siksika Health Services. Her purpose in life is beautifully reflected in her Indigenous name: Megezo Ehpehtastamoot/Wind that Helps Eagles Fly, signifying her dedication to supporting and uplifting others in their journey toward growth and success.
For over two decades, Angie has owned and operated Collective Initiatives, an Indigenous consulting and training company specializing in governance, leadership, and capacity development. She is highly regarded for her expertise in strategic planning, governance training, and senior-level management. Angie holds a Master’s in Leadership and Training from Royal Roads University and a Bachelor’s in Social Development Studies from the University of Waterloo. Angie has extensive experience in healthcare leadership and administration, having served as Executive Director of Misiway Milopemahtesewin Community Health Centre, where she played a critical role in advancing community-driven healthcare initiatives. She was also instrumental in helping her home Nation, Moose Cree First Nation, successfully negotiate and implement its Health Transfer from the Federal Government—an achievement that strengthened community health sovereignty and enhanced access to culturally appropriate care.
Angie has held senior leadership positions as Director of Operations for the Shuswap and Campbell River Indian Bands, where she led organizational restructuring, policy development, and strategic governance initiatives. Her approach is deeply rooted in the principles of Two-Eyed Seeing, blending Indigenous knowledge with Western governance practices to create sustainable, community-led solutions. As a Crown-ward from the ages of 5-16 (having been raised in ten different foster homes), Angie developed resiliency and a holistic ‘medicine bundle’ that has not only allowed her to transcend the odds stacked against her but to truly thrive and impact others in a positive way. Her favourite quote is: “People don’t care how much you know, until they know how much you care”. Angie is committed to leaving a legacy that will leave a positive impact for seven generations to come.
Dr. Pearl Yellow Old Woman-Healy
Dr. Pearl Yellow Old Woman-Healy (Pinnaap’ksísskstakaakii, “Eastern Beaver Woman”) has a PhD in Community Health Sciences from the University of Calgary, with a specialization in Community Rehabilitation and Disability Studies. Her research, which focused on Siksikaitsitapi-informed health and wellness for Siksika children with disabilities, demonstrates her deep commitment to culturally competent healthcare delivery.
Katrina Hewton-Backfat
Katrina (Ni’tainahmahakii) is a registered psychologist from Siksika Nation. She is from the Backfat family (grandparents Philip and Jean). She was born and raised in Calgary, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and the Master of Counselling program at City University of Seattle. Her parents are Ron and Betty and she has 4 sisters: Gisele, Candace, Latisha and Fawn.
Katrina has a background of working in areas of crisis, sexual violence, and addiction. Her work as a psychologist is based on understanding trauma from an Indigenous way of knowing and integrating diverse ways of healing. She works primarily with adults and youth (12+) and enjoys working from a spiritual and relational lens.
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Siksika Health Services Welcomes New Interim CEO, Tom Littlechild
Leave a CommentWe are pleased to announce the appointment of Tom Littlechild as our new Interim Chief Executive Officer. Tom brings extensive leadership experience to this role, in Siksika Nation and beyond. Tom is Siksika’s Director of Emergency Services, as well as the Nation’s Fire Chief and Siksika Health’s Emergency Medical Services Team Leader. Tom serves on the Board of Directors for the First Nations EMS Association, a group that builds capacity in First Nations communities across Canada to provide high quality EMS systems.
In these roles, Tom Littlechild leads dedicated teams that provide round-the-clock emergency care to Siksika Nation, responsibilities he will maintain alongside his new position as Interim CEO. Tom’s ability to manage numerous critical operations while maintaining high service standards makes him well-suited to guide our organization during this transition.
As Interim CEO, Tom will work closely with our Board of Directors to ensure organizational stability and continuity. His immediate focus will be on maintaining the consistent delivery of our essential programs and services, building upon our organization’s strong foundation. We are hopeful that his leadership will help sustain our vital work as we prepare for the transition to a permanent CEO in the coming months.
Please join us in welcoming Tom Littlechild to this important role. -
A Message from Dr. Quintina Bearchief-Adolpho, Interim Chief Executive Officer
Leave a CommentOki, nisto, annakaok Naatoyaimoniisaakii, also known as Dr. Quintina Bearchief-Adolpho, PhD,
I was recently appointed Interim CEO of Siksika Health Services. I am grateful to Dr Tyler White for initially giving me the opportunity to return home as a Siksika Mental Health Clinical Team Leader seven years ago.
My experiences as Siksika Mental Health Team Leader, current Board president-elect of the Psychologists’ Association of Alberta, and longtime practicing and licensed PhD psychologist have come at a great cost of many of my predecessors to whom I owe a debt of gratitude. My late parents, Theresa and Clement Bearchief, have sacrificed much of their lives in support of my career. The late Amelia Clarke also encouraged and supported my educational aspirations. We are inheritors of a great history of those who have resiliently survived and provided us with a core foundation upon which to build. It is an honour to step into the role of Interim CEO of Siksika Health Services.
Although we have a rich inheritance, much of our inheritance has been eroded and decayed by the impact of the trauma we have suffered and perpetuated, both individually and collectively as a people. As a result, we suffer disconnection in our relationships with ourselves, others, the creation, and our creator. Over decades and centuries of external oppressive abuse the disconnection has had a hollowing effect, leaving our inheritances a mess. We are tasked to turn back to our ancestral Fathers, to return to our original roots of strength as Niitsitapi, and reclaim our connections to ourselves, our living relations and those around us, the creation, and our Creator. It is a battle on the front lines of both the spiritual and the physical, both components of Siksika Health Services.
My vision for the future of Siksika Health Services is to address the needs of the individual, one person at a time. In my study of permaculture, I have learned that: “If you want to make small changes, then change the way you “do” things. But, if you want to make BIG changes, you must change the way you “see and look” at things.”
My BIG intention as Interim CEO of Siksika Health Services is to heal the nation of disconnection within ourselves, with one another, with our creation, and with our creator. I believe it will have a result of decreasing brain-drain and promote brain-gain. The services currently offered at Siksika Health Services provide a strong foundation for this work, and I am excited to work with our team to build a brighter and more connected future.
